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Bilateral thoracic ducts with coexistent persistent left superior vena cava.
Huayue Chen1, Shizuko Shoumura, Shoichi Emura
1Department of Anatomy, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan. huayue@cc.gifu-u.ac.jp
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.)
|November 1, 2005
Summary
A rare anatomical finding revealed bilateral thoracic ducts alongside a persistent left superior vena cava (SVC) in a cadaver. This unique combination offers insights into thoracic duct and SVC development and clinical relevance.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Embryology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- The superior vena cava (SVC) is a major vein that returns deoxygenated blood from the upper body to the heart.
- The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body, collecting lymph from most of the body.
- Variations in these structures can arise during embryonic development.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old female cadaver presented with a persistent left SVC draining into the coronary sinus.
- Bilateral thoracic ducts were observed, originating at the first lumbar vertebra and draining into bilateral venous angles.
- Anastomotic connections were noted between the bilateral thoracic ducts.
Findings:
- The persistent left SVC was noted to originate from the left brachiocephalic vein and descend anterior to the aortic arch.
- The right SVC was normal in size and position, receiving the azygos and hemiazygos veins.
- The accessory hemiazygos vein and left superior intercostal vein formed a common trunk draining into the left SVC.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare coexistence of persistent left SVC and bilateral thoracic ducts, suggesting complex embryological origins.
- Understanding such anatomical variations is crucial for accurate interpretation of medical imaging and surgical planning.
- The findings contribute to the knowledge base of thoracic duct and SVC anomalies, aiding in clinical diagnostics and research.